5 Common Cyber Threats for Travelers—and How to Avoid Them

Whether you’re backpacking across Europe, attending a conference in Tokyo, or simply relaxing at a beachside resort, there’s a good chance you’ll be hopping on public Wi-Fi, accessing sensitive apps, or posting vacation highlights on social media. While modern technology brings convenience and connectivity, it also opens the door to cyber threats—especially when you’re away from home. Below are five of the most common cyber risks travelers face, along with easy-to-follow strategies for staying safe and secure on the road.

1. Public Wi-Fi Snooping

Why It’s Dangerous:
Free Wi-Fi is a lifesaver when you need to check maps or book a last-minute hotel. But public networks, especially in airports, cafés, and hotels, can be notoriously easy to hijack. Hackers can intercept your data (login credentials, credit card info, etc.) through poorly secured connections.

How to Avoid It:

• Use a VPN: Always connect to a reputable VPN like NordVPN before logging into any sensitive account.
• Disable Auto-Connect: Turn off auto-connect on your phone or laptop to prevent accidental logins to sketchy networks.
• Check the Network Name: Confirm the network name with staff; fake Wi-Fi hotspots can be named similarly to legitimate ones.

2. AI-Enhanced Phishing Attacks

Why It’s Dangerous:
Hackers now use advanced language models to craft ultra-convincing emails or messages that appear to come from your bank, airline, or even your boss. While traveling, you’re more likely to fall for an “urgent” email about payment issues, flight changes, or account warnings.

How to Avoid It:

• Verify Sender Details: Hover over the “From” address and carefully check the domain. AI can mimic tone but can’t hide a suspicious domain.
• Never Click in a Rush: If an email feels urgent or threatening, log into your account manually or contact your bank/airline directly.
• Enable 2-Factor Authentication (2FA): Even if hackers snag your password, they’ll need the second factor to gain full access.

3. Device Theft or Loss

Why It’s Dangerous:
Laptops, tablets, and smartphones are prime targets for theft. A lost or stolen device can lead to identity theft if the thief accesses your saved passwords, emails, or financial apps.

How to Avoid It:

• Use Strong Locks & Biometric Security: Enable PINs, password locks, or fingerprint/Face ID.
• Encrypt Your Devices: Turn on full-disk encryption (BitLocker on Windows, FileVault on Mac) so data is unreadable without the proper credentials.
• Track & Recover: Enable “Find My Device” or similar tracking apps. Keep serial numbers recorded separately.

4. Unsecured Apps & Updates

Why It’s Dangerous:
Old or unpatched software can be riddled with vulnerabilities. Cybercriminals exploit these to remotely hack devices or inject malware—especially on unsecured networks.

How to Avoid It:

• Update Before You Go: Make sure your operating system and key apps (browsers, antivirus, etc.) are fully up to date.
• Automatic Updates On: Allow apps to auto-update in the background, so you don’t miss critical security patches while you’re traveling.
• Minimal Apps: Remove any unnecessary apps you won’t need on your trip to reduce your attack surface.

5. Oversharing on Social Media

Why It’s Dangerous:
Announcing your itinerary or posting real-time vacation pics can inadvertently signal to thieves that your home is empty—or give cyber-stalkers precise info on your whereabouts.

How to Avoid It:

• Limit Real-Time Updates: Wait to post pictures or videos until you’re back at your hotel or even after you’ve returned home.
• Check Privacy Settings: Make sure your social media profiles aren’t open to the public.
• Mind the Geotags: Turn off location tagging on photos unless it’s essential (e.g., for a travel blog or professional purpose).

Additional Safety Tips

1. Back Up Important Files: Keep both a cloud backup and a local encrypted copy of crucial travel documents (passport scans, visas, etc.).
2. Use Contactless Payments: Mobile wallets like Apple Pay or Google Pay don’t share your card number, adding a layer of protection.
3. Know Local Emergency Numbers: Keep your bank’s phone number and local embassy/consulate details handy in case of account issues or stolen devices.

Remember

Traveling doesn’t have to mean letting your guard down online. By taking a few proactive steps—using a trusted VPN like NordVPN on public Wi-Fi, keeping your devices updated, and staying vigilant against AI-enhanced phishing—you can protect your personal information wherever you roam. Safe travels!

About SecureNomad

SecureNomad is the cybersecurity travel arm of Lask Travel Advisors, co-owned by David Lask—your resident cybersecurity professional. Our mission? Empower travelers to explore the world confidently, armed with expert strategies to protect their digital footprints abroad.

Tools We Trust and Recommend:
We use and recommend a curated selection of trusted applications for online safety and convenience, including:

• KeeperSecurity for secure password management.
• NordVPN for safe and private internet browsing.
• Authy for easy two-factor authentication.
• Airalo for eSim provider
• Trend Micro for comprehensive antivirus protection.

Want more tips?

• If you found this guide helpful, share it with your fellow travelers!
  • Check out our past articles on Travel Security Tips
  • Download our Free Cybersecurity Checklist for even more tips on roaming the world safely